Occupational Therapist

New Leader Academy seeks a creative and energetic Occupational Therapist to join our unique research-based therapeutic day school dedicated to the highest levels of achievement for children with special needs. This role requires an Occupational Therapist who will be an integral part of implementing our existing dynamic movement-based learning model. This includes working with students not only in classrooms but throughout various environments in the school. Our educational approach focuses on maximum achievement for each child in many areas, including academic, sensory, and motor skills development using music, rhythm, audio, and highly specialized digital technology to enhance learning and motivation. This is truly a unique environment, not only for children but also for the staff who will be working in our program. The ideal candidate will demonstrate a high level of enthusiasm, creativity, and ability to engage actively in the active program that we have set up for students.

As part of this new school startup, candidates should understand that flexibility and adaptability are crucial for developing and refining our educational and therapeutic approaches and establishing a program that is highly successful for all students.

Key Responsibilities and Job Tasks:  

• Implement and adapt the high-quality existing dynamic education program that aligns with our structured movement-based model, bringing professional creativity to therapy sessions within the established framework  
• Work directly in various environments both inside and outside the building, engaging students in therapeutic activities that promote motor skills, sensory regulation, and active participation  
• Assess and continuously adapt physical and educational environments to meet the sensory and motor needs of students  
• Participate in an existing continuous daily data collection system which is partially automated, using digital data collection systems. Some of these systems include continual use of video and audio recording throughout the day in different environments to measure the effectiveness of therapeutic approaches as well as individual student development and growth  
• Be an active part of a large team, including not only educators within our program but also parents and community organizations, to enhance the therapeutic experience and ensure the integration of effective and relevant project-based learning with real-life community systems  
• Bring professional, creative, and therapeutic approaches to your interactions with students, enriching the therapeutic methods within the framework of our program  

Qualifications:  

• Bachelors, Masters, or Doctorate Degree in Occupational Therapy  
• Valid state license in Occupational Therapy  
• A commitment to professional development and staying informed on the latest therapeutic research and practices  
• Experience working with children who have a wide variety of behavioral responses and educational/sensory needs  
• Flexible personality and adaptive approach to therapy, essential for navigating the dynamic environment of a new school startup  

Physical Requirements:  

• Capable of engaging in and facilitating dynamic physical activities throughout the school day  
• Able to handle the physical demands of working with children of various abilities, including moving and assisting children as needed  

Benefits:  

• Competitive salary and benefits package  
• Opportunities for professional development, continuing education, and earning CEUs and professional development points  
• A supportive and collaborative working environment designed to foster professional and personal growth